Be Prepared

The more you know, the safer you can be

Stay Safe by Listening t

Detection and Warnings

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Early Detection

Tornadoes are dected using Dopler Radar and visual cues but researchs are looking to use Algorithms to detect patterns that form into tornadoes.

Watch/Warning

Tornado Watch is an early alert that tornado producing storms may form soon. It covers a larger area and indicates an increased risk for severe weather. A Tornado Warning means an ongoing storm may be producing a tornado right now. It is more serious and urgent, indicating imminent danger to life and property. You should take shelter immediately.

Tornado Sirens

Frankfort, KY Emergency Management maintains 21 sirens throughout the city/county to alert citizens of severe weather




Tornado FAQ's and Facts

How do Tornadoes Form?

A tornado is like a big, spinning wind tunnel that forms when warm, humid air from the ground meets cold air in the sky, causing a powerful updraft that starts to spin like a top; when that spinning air gets strong enough and reaches the ground, it becomes a tornado! You Tube

Tornado watch vs tornado warning?

Tornado Watch is an early alert that tornado-producing storms may form soon. It covers a larger area and indicates an increased risk for severe weather. A Tornado Warning means an ongoing storm may be producing a tornado right now. It is more serious and urgent, indicating imminent danger to life and property. You should take shelter immediately. Source

What is Tornado Alley?

Yes, Kentucky is part of the area that is sometimes considered an extension of Tornado Alley, known as Hoosier Alley. The northern part of Kentucky is one of the areas where tornadoes frequently occur, along with parts of Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Michigan, and Wisconsin. Source

Are overpasses safe?

Overpasses may be one of the worst places to seek shelter from a tornado as they can actually put you at a much greater risk of being killed or seriously injured by flying debris. Source

Does opening windows help?

Studies have found that opening windows allows the tornado's force to push up on the roof, potentially causing it to lift off. The practice of opening windows is therefore not only ineffective but can also increase damage to the structure. Source

Most common type of tornado?

Supercell tornadoes are the most common type of tornado, and they are often the most dangerous. Supercell thunderstorms are characterized by a strong, rotating updraft that can reach speeds of 100 miles per hour. This updraft can lead to the formation of a tornado. Source

worst tornado in US history?

The worst tornado is known as the Tri-State Tornado. It was 219 miles long and lasted 3.5 hours. It killed 695 people. Source

worst tornado in KY?

The worst tornado is known as the Tri-State Tornado. It was 219 miles long and lasted 3.5 hours. It killed 695 people. Source

Where in the world do most occur?

More Tornadoes (average of 1150 every year) occur in the United States than any part of the world. The top 5 states are Texas, Kansas, Florida, Oklahoma and Nebraska. Source

During a tornado...

Don't panic, have a plan and get prepared. Take shelter immediately in a safe place, in the lewest floor, away from windows and any potential flying objects. Source

After a Tornado...

After a Tornado hits, stay informed by listening to a radio or procase; stay away from hanging wires and help as needed. Source

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